Subject of trade rumors since the summer, safety Kyle Dugger officially moved from New England to Pittsburgh this week. Catching a moving train of a reeling defense, Dugger is eager for the chance to put his hand in the pile and right the ship.
“I was excited,” Dugger said via the PPG upon learning of the trade news. “I was excited to get an opportunity to play ball and help this team.”
Under new head coach Mike Vrabel, Dugger fell out of favor in New England. Starting just two games this season as an injury replacement, his career has slipped since signing a four-year, $58 million deal ahead of the 2024 season. Injuries last year hampered his play, and he hasn’t been the same caliber of player since. Dugger reportedly voided the final two years of his contract as part of the trade to bring him to Pittsburgh.
The Steelers figure to have a role for him that the Patriots didn’t. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin aims to get Dugger ready for Sunday’s game against the high-flying Indianapolis Colts. Dugger is doing all he can to get up to speed.
“Studying, getting with the guys, leaning on them,” he said of getting acclimated to the defense. “Asking questions. Just gotta work at it.”
A reunion with Jabrill Peppers, whom the Steelers signed earlier this season after being cut by the Patriots, is helping accelerate that process. Dugger confirmed he’s willing and able to cover tight ends and could be pitted against rookie Tyler Warren, who is having a strong first season and has found the end zone in three of his last four games.
Dugger will help ease the loss of SS DeShon Elliott, out the next month if not longer due to a knee injury. At 6-1, 220 pounds Dugger has unique size and was viewed as a hybrid linebacker/safety coming out of college. He’s largely played defensive back throughout his NFL career.
That run defense will come in handy against Colts RB Jonathan Taylor, who finished Week 8 as the NFL’s leader in carries, rushing yards, and rushing touchdowns. He’s posted 100-yard games in half his contests this season and is on pace to finish with over 1,800 yards. The two-time Pro Bowler is on pace to match the 1,811 yards he posted in 2021.
For Pittsburgh’s defense to get back on track, it’ll take more than one player to turn things around. But if Dugger can do his job, he’ll help that process and help his market value as a soon-to-be free agent after the season.